Make better use of empty classrooms and unused school facilities

I have a family member who is a teacher and I know the pressure that teachers are under fitting in curriculum studies.

I understand that years ago some teachers offered up their own time to take part in voluntary extra-curricular sports activities but that is not as common now, possibly because of political reasons and teachers feeling let down.

Schools in our city have playing fields and classrooms that stand empty longer than they are used considering the time that schools finish and weekends.

Why can’t the education department/councillors get together with the private sector/voluntary organisations/sports clubs/hobbyists to use those facilities to educate our children in subjects where they seem to be failing, such as sciences/languages and sports/hobbies other than football , but also football and hobbies other than getting drunk and smashing up bus shelters.

Why can’t every school with playing fields ensure they have running lanes marked out and encourage possible future Olympic athletes.

The education department could even use after-school time to teach health and welfare, social responsibilty, politics, get banks to come in and teach children how to manage money etc.

I’m sure if people thought about it the after-school time and weekend classes could better prepare our children to grow into responsible adults.

Crispian Watson